SEMA News - July 2009
EVENTS

By Annie Kang

Four New Incentives to Help Exhibitors at the 2009 SEMA Show

Exhibitors at the 2009 SEMA Show will receive valuable rewards and have access to first-time offers that will help ensure a lifetime return on their investment.

SEMA is heading into the 2009 SEMA Show—to be held November 3–6, 2009, at the Las Vegas Convention Center—with unprecedented new programs aimed at ensuring that exhibitors receive the maximum return on their investment. These first-time incentives include guaranteed leads, bonus seniority points for booth space selection, all-new discounted booth packages and an incredible financing plan.

“Exhibitors continue to tell us how valuable it is for them to be at the SEMA Show,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events. “These promotions help make it more affordable and give companies peace of mind in knowing that they’ll continue to get the best value and return on their investment at the SEMA Show.” For complete details on all of the latest programs, visit www.SEMAShow.com or contact ConvExx Show Management at sema-exhibit@convexx.com or 702/450-7662 ext. 120.

		Show organizers have introduced a Leads Guaranteed Program that will ensure all exhibiting manufacturers/importers and exclusive distributors receive a unique and personalized report by October 1, 2009, of at least 1,000 preregistered buyers.
		Exhibitors with five or more years of seniority points may choose to extend their payments for as much as 12 months. The promotion is one of several new programs designed to make it more affordable for companies to participate in the event.
		Exhibitors will be awarded a bonus seniority point that will be applied when determining booth space selection.

Financing Option With Extended Payment Plan

SEMA Show organizers are offering qualified exhibitors a unique and radical payment plan option to ease cash-flow concerns. For the first time in SEMA Show history, exhibitors with five or more years of seniority points may choose to extend their payments into the next calendar year. The promotion is one of several new programs designed to make it more affordable for companies to participate in the event.

“The SEMA Show is the largest gathering of automotive aftermarket companies in the United States,” said MacGillivray. “Based on early registration numbers, we’re confident that the 2009 event will continue to be the best place for the industry to do business and stay connected with this market.”

The financing option was developed to assist long-standing SEMA Show exhibitors that will be participating at the 2009 event. In previous years, SEMA Show exhibitors were required to pay in full months before the Show. The financing option includes a low processing fee and has exhibitors submitting final payment as late as mid-May 2010.

“These exhibitors are the reason why the SEMA Show has been such a success,” added MacGillivray. “They are the innovators who define our market. We’re here to help them in any way possible.”

Guaranteed Leads Program

SEMA Show organizers have announced a Leads Guaranteed Program designed to reassure exhibitors that the 2009 event is on track to deliver high-quality buyers. The guarantee provides all exhibiting manufacturers/importers and exclusive distributors a unique and personalized report by October 1, 2009, of at least 1,000 preregistered buyers.

The list will be prioritized by relevance so that exhibitors can see who the best matches are and will include the tools necessary to reach out and communicate with the buyers at least one month before the SEMA Show takes place.

“We know that exhibitors’ biggest concern is connecting with quality buyers,” said MacGillivray. “The Leads Guaranteed

Program is more than just an assurance that buyers will be at the Show. It’s a valuable tool that will help exhibitors identify the most relevant buyers and easily connect them with one another, and it provides a new opportunity to win business.”

The buyers list will also be personalized for each exhibitor. Exhibitors that do not have at least 1,000 matches will be eligible to withdraw from the SEMA Show without any financial penalties.

		The Leads Guaranteed Program provides all exhibiting manufacturers/importers and exclusive distributors a unique and personalized report by October 1, 2009, of at least 1,000 preregistered buyers.
		For the first time in SEMA Show’s history, exhibitors with five or more years of seniority points may choose to extend their payments into the next calendar year.
		SEMA has worked closely with Freeman to develop new turnkey exhibit packages that are discounted 30% off the company’s advance retail prices.

Bonus Seniority Points for Booth Space Selection

For the first time in the SEMA Show’s 43-year history, organizers are awarding more than one seniority point to exhibitors for participating in the 2009 event. Seniority points are used to determine the order in which exhibitors select their booth space within the 2 million-sq.-ft. Las Vegas Convention Center. Exhibitors are typically given one seniority point per year, and space is selected beginning with companies that have the highest seniority. All exhibitors will be given two seniority points for exhibiting at the upcoming 2009 SEMA Show.

“We value our exhibitors and appreciate the confidence that they have displayed by participating in the SEMA Show,” said Gary Vigil, SEMA director of trade shows. “The additional seniority point is a special bonus to demonstrate our appreciation. As these companies invest in their future and continue to grow their businesses, the additional seniority point will be valuable in developing their overall strategic marketing plan and in selecting exhibit space at future SEMA Shows.”

As in previous years, exhibitors will be able to reserve booth space up until the event takes place in November. Companies that reserved their booth space by the May deadline were able to participate in the Priority Booth Selection Process. Space will continue to be assigned after the drawing on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Discounted Booth Packages

Exhibitors of the 2009 SEMA Show will also be able to save more than 30% off booth services by selecting one of several newly created discount booth packages. The turn-key packages, which include booth panels, electricity, furniture, carpet, drayage, labor and more, include variations of the services requested most and offer exhibitors the flexibility to select from a range of panel and carpet colors.

“The discount booth packages are examples of how we are helping exhibitors get the most out of their investment,” said Vigil.

SEMA worked closely with Freeman to develop the packages.

“We encourage exhibitors to take advantage of this offer,” added MacGillivray, noting that it will also eliminate the possibility of any last-minute expenses and allow exhibitors to focus on other important aspects of the SEMA Show.

“The SEMA Show is the largest gathering of automotive specialty-equipment businesses in the United States,” noted MacGillivray. “This is the time and the place that exhibitors should focus on connecting with the industry, and these packages will help when many of our members need it most.”

MacGillivray encouraged exhibitors to take advantage of the tools and resources that connect exhibitors with buyers. An online matchmaking program launched Monday, June 15, to make communication easy, and the new Leads Guaranteed Program will highlight the best matches for exhibitors.

These valuable incentives have already attracted more than 1,200 companies that will be exhibiting at the SEMA Show, guaranteeing not only success for exhibitors, but also a virtual playground for buyers.

“Based on the preliminary numbers, we are extremely pleased with the outlook for the upcoming SEMA Show,” said MacGillivray.

Click here to view a complete list of booth packages, and select the option that best meets your needs.

SEMA News - July 2009
EVENTS

By Annie Kang

Four New Incentives to Help Exhibitors at the 2009 SEMA Show

Exhibitors at the 2009 SEMA Show will receive valuable rewards and have access to first-time offers that will help ensure a lifetime return on their investment.

SEMA is heading into the 2009 SEMA Show—to be held November 3–6, 2009, at the Las Vegas Convention Center—with unprecedented new programs aimed at ensuring that exhibitors receive the maximum return on their investment. These first-time incentives include guaranteed leads, bonus seniority points for booth space selection, all-new discounted booth packages and an incredible financing plan.

“Exhibitors continue to tell us how valuable it is for them to be at the SEMA Show,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events. “These promotions help make it more affordable and give companies peace of mind in knowing that they’ll continue to get the best value and return on their investment at the SEMA Show.” For complete details on all of the latest programs, visit www.SEMAShow.com or contact ConvExx Show Management at sema-exhibit@convexx.com or 702/450-7662 ext. 120.

		Show organizers have introduced a Leads Guaranteed Program that will ensure all exhibiting manufacturers/importers and exclusive distributors receive a unique and personalized report by October 1, 2009, of at least 1,000 preregistered buyers.
		Exhibitors with five or more years of seniority points may choose to extend their payments for as much as 12 months. The promotion is one of several new programs designed to make it more affordable for companies to participate in the event.
		Exhibitors will be awarded a bonus seniority point that will be applied when determining booth space selection.

Financing Option With Extended Payment Plan

SEMA Show organizers are offering qualified exhibitors a unique and radical payment plan option to ease cash-flow concerns. For the first time in SEMA Show history, exhibitors with five or more years of seniority points may choose to extend their payments into the next calendar year. The promotion is one of several new programs designed to make it more affordable for companies to participate in the event.

“The SEMA Show is the largest gathering of automotive aftermarket companies in the United States,” said MacGillivray. “Based on early registration numbers, we’re confident that the 2009 event will continue to be the best place for the industry to do business and stay connected with this market.”

The financing option was developed to assist long-standing SEMA Show exhibitors that will be participating at the 2009 event. In previous years, SEMA Show exhibitors were required to pay in full months before the Show. The financing option includes a low processing fee and has exhibitors submitting final payment as late as mid-May 2010.

“These exhibitors are the reason why the SEMA Show has been such a success,” added MacGillivray. “They are the innovators who define our market. We’re here to help them in any way possible.”

Guaranteed Leads Program

SEMA Show organizers have announced a Leads Guaranteed Program designed to reassure exhibitors that the 2009 event is on track to deliver high-quality buyers. The guarantee provides all exhibiting manufacturers/importers and exclusive distributors a unique and personalized report by October 1, 2009, of at least 1,000 preregistered buyers.

The list will be prioritized by relevance so that exhibitors can see who the best matches are and will include the tools necessary to reach out and communicate with the buyers at least one month before the SEMA Show takes place.

“We know that exhibitors’ biggest concern is connecting with quality buyers,” said MacGillivray. “The Leads Guaranteed

Program is more than just an assurance that buyers will be at the Show. It’s a valuable tool that will help exhibitors identify the most relevant buyers and easily connect them with one another, and it provides a new opportunity to win business.”

The buyers list will also be personalized for each exhibitor. Exhibitors that do not have at least 1,000 matches will be eligible to withdraw from the SEMA Show without any financial penalties.

		The Leads Guaranteed Program provides all exhibiting manufacturers/importers and exclusive distributors a unique and personalized report by October 1, 2009, of at least 1,000 preregistered buyers.
		For the first time in SEMA Show’s history, exhibitors with five or more years of seniority points may choose to extend their payments into the next calendar year.
		SEMA has worked closely with Freeman to develop new turnkey exhibit packages that are discounted 30% off the company’s advance retail prices.

Bonus Seniority Points for Booth Space Selection

For the first time in the SEMA Show’s 43-year history, organizers are awarding more than one seniority point to exhibitors for participating in the 2009 event. Seniority points are used to determine the order in which exhibitors select their booth space within the 2 million-sq.-ft. Las Vegas Convention Center. Exhibitors are typically given one seniority point per year, and space is selected beginning with companies that have the highest seniority. All exhibitors will be given two seniority points for exhibiting at the upcoming 2009 SEMA Show.

“We value our exhibitors and appreciate the confidence that they have displayed by participating in the SEMA Show,” said Gary Vigil, SEMA director of trade shows. “The additional seniority point is a special bonus to demonstrate our appreciation. As these companies invest in their future and continue to grow their businesses, the additional seniority point will be valuable in developing their overall strategic marketing plan and in selecting exhibit space at future SEMA Shows.”

As in previous years, exhibitors will be able to reserve booth space up until the event takes place in November. Companies that reserved their booth space by the May deadline were able to participate in the Priority Booth Selection Process. Space will continue to be assigned after the drawing on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Discounted Booth Packages

Exhibitors of the 2009 SEMA Show will also be able to save more than 30% off booth services by selecting one of several newly created discount booth packages. The turn-key packages, which include booth panels, electricity, furniture, carpet, drayage, labor and more, include variations of the services requested most and offer exhibitors the flexibility to select from a range of panel and carpet colors.

“The discount booth packages are examples of how we are helping exhibitors get the most out of their investment,” said Vigil.

SEMA worked closely with Freeman to develop the packages.

“We encourage exhibitors to take advantage of this offer,” added MacGillivray, noting that it will also eliminate the possibility of any last-minute expenses and allow exhibitors to focus on other important aspects of the SEMA Show.

“The SEMA Show is the largest gathering of automotive specialty-equipment businesses in the United States,” noted MacGillivray. “This is the time and the place that exhibitors should focus on connecting with the industry, and these packages will help when many of our members need it most.”

MacGillivray encouraged exhibitors to take advantage of the tools and resources that connect exhibitors with buyers. An online matchmaking program launched Monday, June 15, to make communication easy, and the new Leads Guaranteed Program will highlight the best matches for exhibitors.

These valuable incentives have already attracted more than 1,200 companies that will be exhibiting at the SEMA Show, guaranteeing not only success for exhibitors, but also a virtual playground for buyers.

“Based on the preliminary numbers, we are extremely pleased with the outlook for the upcoming SEMA Show,” said MacGillivray.

Click here to view a complete list of booth packages, and select the option that best meets your needs.

SEMA News - July 2009
EVENTS

By Annie Kang

Four New Incentives to Help Exhibitors at the 2009 SEMA Show

Exhibitors at the 2009 SEMA Show will receive valuable rewards and have access to first-time offers that will help ensure a lifetime return on their investment.

SEMA is heading into the 2009 SEMA Show—to be held November 3–6, 2009, at the Las Vegas Convention Center—with unprecedented new programs aimed at ensuring that exhibitors receive the maximum return on their investment. These first-time incentives include guaranteed leads, bonus seniority points for booth space selection, all-new discounted booth packages and an incredible financing plan.

“Exhibitors continue to tell us how valuable it is for them to be at the SEMA Show,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of communications and events. “These promotions help make it more affordable and give companies peace of mind in knowing that they’ll continue to get the best value and return on their investment at the SEMA Show.” For complete details on all of the latest programs, visit www.SEMAShow.com or contact ConvExx Show Management at sema-exhibit@convexx.com or 702/450-7662 ext. 120.

		Show organizers have introduced a Leads Guaranteed Program that will ensure all exhibiting manufacturers/importers and exclusive distributors receive a unique and personalized report by October 1, 2009, of at least 1,000 preregistered buyers.
		Exhibitors with five or more years of seniority points may choose to extend their payments for as much as 12 months. The promotion is one of several new programs designed to make it more affordable for companies to participate in the event.
		Exhibitors will be awarded a bonus seniority point that will be applied when determining booth space selection.

Financing Option With Extended Payment Plan

SEMA Show organizers are offering qualified exhibitors a unique and radical payment plan option to ease cash-flow concerns. For the first time in SEMA Show history, exhibitors with five or more years of seniority points may choose to extend their payments into the next calendar year. The promotion is one of several new programs designed to make it more affordable for companies to participate in the event.

“The SEMA Show is the largest gathering of automotive aftermarket companies in the United States,” said MacGillivray. “Based on early registration numbers, we’re confident that the 2009 event will continue to be the best place for the industry to do business and stay connected with this market.”

The financing option was developed to assist long-standing SEMA Show exhibitors that will be participating at the 2009 event. In previous years, SEMA Show exhibitors were required to pay in full months before the Show. The financing option includes a low processing fee and has exhibitors submitting final payment as late as mid-May 2010.

“These exhibitors are the reason why the SEMA Show has been such a success,” added MacGillivray. “They are the innovators who define our market. We’re here to help them in any way possible.”

Guaranteed Leads Program

SEMA Show organizers have announced a Leads Guaranteed Program designed to reassure exhibitors that the 2009 event is on track to deliver high-quality buyers. The guarantee provides all exhibiting manufacturers/importers and exclusive distributors a unique and personalized report by October 1, 2009, of at least 1,000 preregistered buyers.

The list will be prioritized by relevance so that exhibitors can see who the best matches are and will include the tools necessary to reach out and communicate with the buyers at least one month before the SEMA Show takes place.

“We know that exhibitors’ biggest concern is connecting with quality buyers,” said MacGillivray. “The Leads Guaranteed

Program is more than just an assurance that buyers will be at the Show. It’s a valuable tool that will help exhibitors identify the most relevant buyers and easily connect them with one another, and it provides a new opportunity to win business.”

The buyers list will also be personalized for each exhibitor. Exhibitors that do not have at least 1,000 matches will be eligible to withdraw from the SEMA Show without any financial penalties.

		The Leads Guaranteed Program provides all exhibiting manufacturers/importers and exclusive distributors a unique and personalized report by October 1, 2009, of at least 1,000 preregistered buyers.
		For the first time in SEMA Show’s history, exhibitors with five or more years of seniority points may choose to extend their payments into the next calendar year.
		SEMA has worked closely with Freeman to develop new turnkey exhibit packages that are discounted 30% off the company’s advance retail prices.

Bonus Seniority Points for Booth Space Selection

For the first time in the SEMA Show’s 43-year history, organizers are awarding more than one seniority point to exhibitors for participating in the 2009 event. Seniority points are used to determine the order in which exhibitors select their booth space within the 2 million-sq.-ft. Las Vegas Convention Center. Exhibitors are typically given one seniority point per year, and space is selected beginning with companies that have the highest seniority. All exhibitors will be given two seniority points for exhibiting at the upcoming 2009 SEMA Show.

“We value our exhibitors and appreciate the confidence that they have displayed by participating in the SEMA Show,” said Gary Vigil, SEMA director of trade shows. “The additional seniority point is a special bonus to demonstrate our appreciation. As these companies invest in their future and continue to grow their businesses, the additional seniority point will be valuable in developing their overall strategic marketing plan and in selecting exhibit space at future SEMA Shows.”

As in previous years, exhibitors will be able to reserve booth space up until the event takes place in November. Companies that reserved their booth space by the May deadline were able to participate in the Priority Booth Selection Process. Space will continue to be assigned after the drawing on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Discounted Booth Packages

Exhibitors of the 2009 SEMA Show will also be able to save more than 30% off booth services by selecting one of several newly created discount booth packages. The turn-key packages, which include booth panels, electricity, furniture, carpet, drayage, labor and more, include variations of the services requested most and offer exhibitors the flexibility to select from a range of panel and carpet colors.

“The discount booth packages are examples of how we are helping exhibitors get the most out of their investment,” said Vigil.

SEMA worked closely with Freeman to develop the packages.

“We encourage exhibitors to take advantage of this offer,” added MacGillivray, noting that it will also eliminate the possibility of any last-minute expenses and allow exhibitors to focus on other important aspects of the SEMA Show.

“The SEMA Show is the largest gathering of automotive specialty-equipment businesses in the United States,” noted MacGillivray. “This is the time and the place that exhibitors should focus on connecting with the industry, and these packages will help when many of our members need it most.”

MacGillivray encouraged exhibitors to take advantage of the tools and resources that connect exhibitors with buyers. An online matchmaking program launched Monday, June 15, to make communication easy, and the new Leads Guaranteed Program will highlight the best matches for exhibitors.

These valuable incentives have already attracted more than 1,200 companies that will be exhibiting at the SEMA Show, guaranteeing not only success for exhibitors, but also a virtual playground for buyers.

“Based on the preliminary numbers, we are extremely pleased with the outlook for the upcoming SEMA Show,” said MacGillivray.

Click here to view a complete list of booth packages, and select the option that best meets your needs.

SEMA News - July 2009
EVENTS

By Annie Kang

Honoring and Celebrating the Industry While Giving to Those in Need

SEMA Chairman Jim Cozzie honors his peers at the 2008 Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser. Cozzie will be defending his first-place win in the Unlimited class at the second annual Pinewood Drag Race.

Nothing brings together the specialty-equipment community more than when industry leaders and pioneers are honored, charitable causes are served, cars are displayed and peers have the opportunity to compete against each other in the ultimate drag race. The SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser—to be held Saturday, August 1, 2009, at the Pasadena Convention Center in Pasadena, California—is the culmination of SEMA Leadership Days, a three-day event filled with activities that celebrate the spirit of the industry and its members.

The Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser recognizes the dedicated service of the SEMA Board of Directors—a wholly volunteer group of talented individuals who are elected by the membership to lead the association in its efforts. As the outgoing directors are thanked, those who have been newly elected to serve the association are welcomed.

The 2009 SEMA Hall of Fame inductees will also be announced at the gala. The inductees will be honored for their dedication, service and devotion to their businesses and the industry.

The gala will be preceded by the second annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Race, presented by eBay Motors, which will be held from 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. The drag race, which raised approximately $40,000 last year, will benefit children’s charities Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp. Childhelp is an organization that assists abused and neglected children, and Victory Junction Gang Camp provides life-changing camping experiences to disabled and chronically ill children.

Miniature race cars are built for the stock class by children at their camps and then sponsored by participants through their donations to the charities. This year, about 200 cars were built at the Childhelp camp and 150 at the Victory Junction Gang Camp.

A team of SEMA-member volunteers and Pinewood Committee members were on hand to lend their expertise to the children.

“The build days we had this year were simply fantastic,” said 2009 SEMA Pinewood Drag Race Committee Chairman Gregory Parker. “The joy on those kids’ faces as they built their own racers and raced them down the tracks was something to see.”

Spectators anticipating the big win at the 2008 SEMA Pinewood Drag Race. Participants can sponsor derby cars that were built by the kids of Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp, or they can design their own entries.

Participants who sponsor a child’s car will be designated as the team owner and will race under the child’s name.

“We have to work hard to get the racers that were built sponsored by individuals and companies so that we can raise some money for these kids,” said Parker. “The kids really need our help now more than ever.”

Participants can also enter their own derby cars. The drag race will feature three classes: Stock, Modified and Unlimited. The finals will take place shortly before the banquet begins. To enter the race, visit www.sema.org/derby.

The race will also feature an auction of pinewood cars painted by the kids from the charities to resemble the cars of their favorite NASCAR, IRL or NHRA drivers. Each derby car will be autographed by both the child and driver, providing an exclusive item for auction. “The Starting Lineup” auction will take place online at www.sema.org and at the Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser.

SEMA Leadership Days will also include the inaugural SEMA Show ’N’ Shine public car show, to be held August 1. More than 200 vehicles will come together at the Pasadena Convention Center to benefit both Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp.

Chip Foose, award-winning automotive designer and fabricator and host of TLC’s “Overhaulin’,” has been named Grand Marshall of the event.

“It’s an honor being named Grand Marshall for SEMA’s first public car show,” said Foose. “This industry has been an important part of my life, and it’s one that I’m very proud to be a part of. I can’t think of a better way to support these two great children’s charities.”

Foose’s design talent will be displayed at the show through three of his personal vehicles: a ’56 Ford F-100 pickup from “Overhaulin’,” an ’02 Ford T-Bird “Speedbird” that starred in “Rides” and his Foose Coupe. As Grand Marshall of the event, Foose will also design and autograph the official car show T-shirt that will be given to all vehicle registrants free of charge.

“As chairman of the SEMA Cares Committee, I was thrilled when Chip Foose graciously agreed to be the Grand Marshall of our inaugural car show and be on hand to share his passion and expertise with his fellow automotive enthusiasts,” said Joel Ayres. “His generosity and celebrity status will help us launch a successful event that can make the lives of these kids a little better.”

The 2009 SEMA Leadership Days will begin on Thursday, July 30, and will include individual and collective council meetings, Board of Directors’ functions, a State of the Association address and town hall meeting and the annual Internet Symposium. For complete details, visit www.sema.org/leadershipdays. For more information about the Pinewood Drag Race or any of the other activities that will be held in conjunction with the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, contact Lisa Moreno at 909/396-0289 ext. 105 or via e-mail at lisam@sema.org.

SEMA News - July 2009
EVENTS

By Annie Kang

Honoring and Celebrating the Industry While Giving to Those in Need

SEMA Chairman Jim Cozzie honors his peers at the 2008 Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser. Cozzie will be defending his first-place win in the Unlimited class at the second annual Pinewood Drag Race.

Nothing brings together the specialty-equipment community more than when industry leaders and pioneers are honored, charitable causes are served, cars are displayed and peers have the opportunity to compete against each other in the ultimate drag race. The SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser—to be held Saturday, August 1, 2009, at the Pasadena Convention Center in Pasadena, California—is the culmination of SEMA Leadership Days, a three-day event filled with activities that celebrate the spirit of the industry and its members.

The Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser recognizes the dedicated service of the SEMA Board of Directors—a wholly volunteer group of talented individuals who are elected by the membership to lead the association in its efforts. As the outgoing directors are thanked, those who have been newly elected to serve the association are welcomed.

The 2009 SEMA Hall of Fame inductees will also be announced at the gala. The inductees will be honored for their dedication, service and devotion to their businesses and the industry.

The gala will be preceded by the second annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Race, presented by eBay Motors, which will be held from 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. The drag race, which raised approximately $40,000 last year, will benefit children’s charities Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp. Childhelp is an organization that assists abused and neglected children, and Victory Junction Gang Camp provides life-changing camping experiences to disabled and chronically ill children.

Miniature race cars are built for the stock class by children at their camps and then sponsored by participants through their donations to the charities. This year, about 200 cars were built at the Childhelp camp and 150 at the Victory Junction Gang Camp.

A team of SEMA-member volunteers and Pinewood Committee members were on hand to lend their expertise to the children.

“The build days we had this year were simply fantastic,” said 2009 SEMA Pinewood Drag Race Committee Chairman Gregory Parker. “The joy on those kids’ faces as they built their own racers and raced them down the tracks was something to see.”

Spectators anticipating the big win at the 2008 SEMA Pinewood Drag Race. Participants can sponsor derby cars that were built by the kids of Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp, or they can design their own entries.

Participants who sponsor a child’s car will be designated as the team owner and will race under the child’s name.

“We have to work hard to get the racers that were built sponsored by individuals and companies so that we can raise some money for these kids,” said Parker. “The kids really need our help now more than ever.”

Participants can also enter their own derby cars. The drag race will feature three classes: Stock, Modified and Unlimited. The finals will take place shortly before the banquet begins. To enter the race, visit www.sema.org/derby.

The race will also feature an auction of pinewood cars painted by the kids from the charities to resemble the cars of their favorite NASCAR, IRL or NHRA drivers. Each derby car will be autographed by both the child and driver, providing an exclusive item for auction. “The Starting Lineup” auction will take place online at www.sema.org and at the Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser.

SEMA Leadership Days will also include the inaugural SEMA Show ’N’ Shine public car show, to be held August 1. More than 200 vehicles will come together at the Pasadena Convention Center to benefit both Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp.

Chip Foose, award-winning automotive designer and fabricator and host of TLC’s “Overhaulin’,” has been named Grand Marshall of the event.

“It’s an honor being named Grand Marshall for SEMA’s first public car show,” said Foose. “This industry has been an important part of my life, and it’s one that I’m very proud to be a part of. I can’t think of a better way to support these two great children’s charities.”

Foose’s design talent will be displayed at the show through three of his personal vehicles: a ’56 Ford F-100 pickup from “Overhaulin’,” an ’02 Ford T-Bird “Speedbird” that starred in “Rides” and his Foose Coupe. As Grand Marshall of the event, Foose will also design and autograph the official car show T-shirt that will be given to all vehicle registrants free of charge.

“As chairman of the SEMA Cares Committee, I was thrilled when Chip Foose graciously agreed to be the Grand Marshall of our inaugural car show and be on hand to share his passion and expertise with his fellow automotive enthusiasts,” said Joel Ayres. “His generosity and celebrity status will help us launch a successful event that can make the lives of these kids a little better.”

The 2009 SEMA Leadership Days will begin on Thursday, July 30, and will include individual and collective council meetings, Board of Directors’ functions, a State of the Association address and town hall meeting and the annual Internet Symposium. For complete details, visit www.sema.org/leadershipdays. For more information about the Pinewood Drag Race or any of the other activities that will be held in conjunction with the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, contact Lisa Moreno at 909/396-0289 ext. 105 or via e-mail at lisam@sema.org.

SEMA News - July 2009
EVENTS

By Annie Kang

Honoring and Celebrating the Industry While Giving to Those in Need

SEMA Chairman Jim Cozzie honors his peers at the 2008 Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser. Cozzie will be defending his first-place win in the Unlimited class at the second annual Pinewood Drag Race.

Nothing brings together the specialty-equipment community more than when industry leaders and pioneers are honored, charitable causes are served, cars are displayed and peers have the opportunity to compete against each other in the ultimate drag race. The SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser—to be held Saturday, August 1, 2009, at the Pasadena Convention Center in Pasadena, California—is the culmination of SEMA Leadership Days, a three-day event filled with activities that celebrate the spirit of the industry and its members.

The Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser recognizes the dedicated service of the SEMA Board of Directors—a wholly volunteer group of talented individuals who are elected by the membership to lead the association in its efforts. As the outgoing directors are thanked, those who have been newly elected to serve the association are welcomed.

The 2009 SEMA Hall of Fame inductees will also be announced at the gala. The inductees will be honored for their dedication, service and devotion to their businesses and the industry.

The gala will be preceded by the second annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Race, presented by eBay Motors, which will be held from 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. The drag race, which raised approximately $40,000 last year, will benefit children’s charities Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp. Childhelp is an organization that assists abused and neglected children, and Victory Junction Gang Camp provides life-changing camping experiences to disabled and chronically ill children.

Miniature race cars are built for the stock class by children at their camps and then sponsored by participants through their donations to the charities. This year, about 200 cars were built at the Childhelp camp and 150 at the Victory Junction Gang Camp.

A team of SEMA-member volunteers and Pinewood Committee members were on hand to lend their expertise to the children.

“The build days we had this year were simply fantastic,” said 2009 SEMA Pinewood Drag Race Committee Chairman Gregory Parker. “The joy on those kids’ faces as they built their own racers and raced them down the tracks was something to see.”

Spectators anticipating the big win at the 2008 SEMA Pinewood Drag Race. Participants can sponsor derby cars that were built by the kids of Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp, or they can design their own entries.

Participants who sponsor a child’s car will be designated as the team owner and will race under the child’s name.

“We have to work hard to get the racers that were built sponsored by individuals and companies so that we can raise some money for these kids,” said Parker. “The kids really need our help now more than ever.”

Participants can also enter their own derby cars. The drag race will feature three classes: Stock, Modified and Unlimited. The finals will take place shortly before the banquet begins. To enter the race, visit www.sema.org/derby.

The race will also feature an auction of pinewood cars painted by the kids from the charities to resemble the cars of their favorite NASCAR, IRL or NHRA drivers. Each derby car will be autographed by both the child and driver, providing an exclusive item for auction. “The Starting Lineup” auction will take place online at www.sema.org and at the Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser.

SEMA Leadership Days will also include the inaugural SEMA Show ’N’ Shine public car show, to be held August 1. More than 200 vehicles will come together at the Pasadena Convention Center to benefit both Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp.

Chip Foose, award-winning automotive designer and fabricator and host of TLC’s “Overhaulin’,” has been named Grand Marshall of the event.

“It’s an honor being named Grand Marshall for SEMA’s first public car show,” said Foose. “This industry has been an important part of my life, and it’s one that I’m very proud to be a part of. I can’t think of a better way to support these two great children’s charities.”

Foose’s design talent will be displayed at the show through three of his personal vehicles: a ’56 Ford F-100 pickup from “Overhaulin’,” an ’02 Ford T-Bird “Speedbird” that starred in “Rides” and his Foose Coupe. As Grand Marshall of the event, Foose will also design and autograph the official car show T-shirt that will be given to all vehicle registrants free of charge.

“As chairman of the SEMA Cares Committee, I was thrilled when Chip Foose graciously agreed to be the Grand Marshall of our inaugural car show and be on hand to share his passion and expertise with his fellow automotive enthusiasts,” said Joel Ayres. “His generosity and celebrity status will help us launch a successful event that can make the lives of these kids a little better.”

The 2009 SEMA Leadership Days will begin on Thursday, July 30, and will include individual and collective council meetings, Board of Directors’ functions, a State of the Association address and town hall meeting and the annual Internet Symposium. For complete details, visit www.sema.org/leadershipdays. For more information about the Pinewood Drag Race or any of the other activities that will be held in conjunction with the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, contact Lisa Moreno at 909/396-0289 ext. 105 or via e-mail at lisam@sema.org.

SEMA News - July 2009
EVENTS

By Annie Kang

Honoring and Celebrating the Industry While Giving to Those in Need

SEMA Chairman Jim Cozzie honors his peers at the 2008 Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser. Cozzie will be defending his first-place win in the Unlimited class at the second annual Pinewood Drag Race.

Nothing brings together the specialty-equipment community more than when industry leaders and pioneers are honored, charitable causes are served, cars are displayed and peers have the opportunity to compete against each other in the ultimate drag race. The SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser—to be held Saturday, August 1, 2009, at the Pasadena Convention Center in Pasadena, California—is the culmination of SEMA Leadership Days, a three-day event filled with activities that celebrate the spirit of the industry and its members.

The Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser recognizes the dedicated service of the SEMA Board of Directors—a wholly volunteer group of talented individuals who are elected by the membership to lead the association in its efforts. As the outgoing directors are thanked, those who have been newly elected to serve the association are welcomed.

The 2009 SEMA Hall of Fame inductees will also be announced at the gala. The inductees will be honored for their dedication, service and devotion to their businesses and the industry.

The gala will be preceded by the second annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Race, presented by eBay Motors, which will be held from 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. The drag race, which raised approximately $40,000 last year, will benefit children’s charities Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp. Childhelp is an organization that assists abused and neglected children, and Victory Junction Gang Camp provides life-changing camping experiences to disabled and chronically ill children.

Miniature race cars are built for the stock class by children at their camps and then sponsored by participants through their donations to the charities. This year, about 200 cars were built at the Childhelp camp and 150 at the Victory Junction Gang Camp.

A team of SEMA-member volunteers and Pinewood Committee members were on hand to lend their expertise to the children.

“The build days we had this year were simply fantastic,” said 2009 SEMA Pinewood Drag Race Committee Chairman Gregory Parker. “The joy on those kids’ faces as they built their own racers and raced them down the tracks was something to see.”

Spectators anticipating the big win at the 2008 SEMA Pinewood Drag Race. Participants can sponsor derby cars that were built by the kids of Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp, or they can design their own entries.

Participants who sponsor a child’s car will be designated as the team owner and will race under the child’s name.

“We have to work hard to get the racers that were built sponsored by individuals and companies so that we can raise some money for these kids,” said Parker. “The kids really need our help now more than ever.”

Participants can also enter their own derby cars. The drag race will feature three classes: Stock, Modified and Unlimited. The finals will take place shortly before the banquet begins. To enter the race, visit www.sema.org/derby.

The race will also feature an auction of pinewood cars painted by the kids from the charities to resemble the cars of their favorite NASCAR, IRL or NHRA drivers. Each derby car will be autographed by both the child and driver, providing an exclusive item for auction. “The Starting Lineup” auction will take place online at www.sema.org and at the Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser.

SEMA Leadership Days will also include the inaugural SEMA Show ’N’ Shine public car show, to be held August 1. More than 200 vehicles will come together at the Pasadena Convention Center to benefit both Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp.

Chip Foose, award-winning automotive designer and fabricator and host of TLC’s “Overhaulin’,” has been named Grand Marshall of the event.

“It’s an honor being named Grand Marshall for SEMA’s first public car show,” said Foose. “This industry has been an important part of my life, and it’s one that I’m very proud to be a part of. I can’t think of a better way to support these two great children’s charities.”

Foose’s design talent will be displayed at the show through three of his personal vehicles: a ’56 Ford F-100 pickup from “Overhaulin’,” an ’02 Ford T-Bird “Speedbird” that starred in “Rides” and his Foose Coupe. As Grand Marshall of the event, Foose will also design and autograph the official car show T-shirt that will be given to all vehicle registrants free of charge.

“As chairman of the SEMA Cares Committee, I was thrilled when Chip Foose graciously agreed to be the Grand Marshall of our inaugural car show and be on hand to share his passion and expertise with his fellow automotive enthusiasts,” said Joel Ayres. “His generosity and celebrity status will help us launch a successful event that can make the lives of these kids a little better.”

The 2009 SEMA Leadership Days will begin on Thursday, July 30, and will include individual and collective council meetings, Board of Directors’ functions, a State of the Association address and town hall meeting and the annual Internet Symposium. For complete details, visit www.sema.org/leadershipdays. For more information about the Pinewood Drag Race or any of the other activities that will be held in conjunction with the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, contact Lisa Moreno at 909/396-0289 ext. 105 or via e-mail at lisam@sema.org.

SEMA News - July 2009
EVENTS

By Annie Kang

Honoring and Celebrating the Industry While Giving to Those in Need

SEMA Chairman Jim Cozzie honors his peers at the 2008 Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser. Cozzie will be defending his first-place win in the Unlimited class at the second annual Pinewood Drag Race.

Nothing brings together the specialty-equipment community more than when industry leaders and pioneers are honored, charitable causes are served, cars are displayed and peers have the opportunity to compete against each other in the ultimate drag race. The SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser—to be held Saturday, August 1, 2009, at the Pasadena Convention Center in Pasadena, California—is the culmination of SEMA Leadership Days, a three-day event filled with activities that celebrate the spirit of the industry and its members.

The Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser recognizes the dedicated service of the SEMA Board of Directors—a wholly volunteer group of talented individuals who are elected by the membership to lead the association in its efforts. As the outgoing directors are thanked, those who have been newly elected to serve the association are welcomed.

The 2009 SEMA Hall of Fame inductees will also be announced at the gala. The inductees will be honored for their dedication, service and devotion to their businesses and the industry.

The gala will be preceded by the second annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Race, presented by eBay Motors, which will be held from 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. The drag race, which raised approximately $40,000 last year, will benefit children’s charities Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp. Childhelp is an organization that assists abused and neglected children, and Victory Junction Gang Camp provides life-changing camping experiences to disabled and chronically ill children.

Miniature race cars are built for the stock class by children at their camps and then sponsored by participants through their donations to the charities. This year, about 200 cars were built at the Childhelp camp and 150 at the Victory Junction Gang Camp.

A team of SEMA-member volunteers and Pinewood Committee members were on hand to lend their expertise to the children.

“The build days we had this year were simply fantastic,” said 2009 SEMA Pinewood Drag Race Committee Chairman Gregory Parker. “The joy on those kids’ faces as they built their own racers and raced them down the tracks was something to see.”

Spectators anticipating the big win at the 2008 SEMA Pinewood Drag Race. Participants can sponsor derby cars that were built by the kids of Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp, or they can design their own entries.

Participants who sponsor a child’s car will be designated as the team owner and will race under the child’s name.

“We have to work hard to get the racers that were built sponsored by individuals and companies so that we can raise some money for these kids,” said Parker. “The kids really need our help now more than ever.”

Participants can also enter their own derby cars. The drag race will feature three classes: Stock, Modified and Unlimited. The finals will take place shortly before the banquet begins. To enter the race, visit www.sema.org/derby.

The race will also feature an auction of pinewood cars painted by the kids from the charities to resemble the cars of their favorite NASCAR, IRL or NHRA drivers. Each derby car will be autographed by both the child and driver, providing an exclusive item for auction. “The Starting Lineup” auction will take place online at www.sema.org and at the Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser.

SEMA Leadership Days will also include the inaugural SEMA Show ’N’ Shine public car show, to be held August 1. More than 200 vehicles will come together at the Pasadena Convention Center to benefit both Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp.

Chip Foose, award-winning automotive designer and fabricator and host of TLC’s “Overhaulin’,” has been named Grand Marshall of the event.

“It’s an honor being named Grand Marshall for SEMA’s first public car show,” said Foose. “This industry has been an important part of my life, and it’s one that I’m very proud to be a part of. I can’t think of a better way to support these two great children’s charities.”

Foose’s design talent will be displayed at the show through three of his personal vehicles: a ’56 Ford F-100 pickup from “Overhaulin’,” an ’02 Ford T-Bird “Speedbird” that starred in “Rides” and his Foose Coupe. As Grand Marshall of the event, Foose will also design and autograph the official car show T-shirt that will be given to all vehicle registrants free of charge.

“As chairman of the SEMA Cares Committee, I was thrilled when Chip Foose graciously agreed to be the Grand Marshall of our inaugural car show and be on hand to share his passion and expertise with his fellow automotive enthusiasts,” said Joel Ayres. “His generosity and celebrity status will help us launch a successful event that can make the lives of these kids a little better.”

The 2009 SEMA Leadership Days will begin on Thursday, July 30, and will include individual and collective council meetings, Board of Directors’ functions, a State of the Association address and town hall meeting and the annual Internet Symposium. For complete details, visit www.sema.org/leadershipdays. For more information about the Pinewood Drag Race or any of the other activities that will be held in conjunction with the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, contact Lisa Moreno at 909/396-0289 ext. 105 or via e-mail at lisam@sema.org.

SEMA News - July 2009
EVENTS

By Annie Kang

Honoring and Celebrating the Industry While Giving to Those in Need

SEMA Chairman Jim Cozzie honors his peers at the 2008 Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser. Cozzie will be defending his first-place win in the Unlimited class at the second annual Pinewood Drag Race.

Nothing brings together the specialty-equipment community more than when industry leaders and pioneers are honored, charitable causes are served, cars are displayed and peers have the opportunity to compete against each other in the ultimate drag race. The SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser—to be held Saturday, August 1, 2009, at the Pasadena Convention Center in Pasadena, California—is the culmination of SEMA Leadership Days, a three-day event filled with activities that celebrate the spirit of the industry and its members.

The Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser recognizes the dedicated service of the SEMA Board of Directors—a wholly volunteer group of talented individuals who are elected by the membership to lead the association in its efforts. As the outgoing directors are thanked, those who have been newly elected to serve the association are welcomed.

The 2009 SEMA Hall of Fame inductees will also be announced at the gala. The inductees will be honored for their dedication, service and devotion to their businesses and the industry.

The gala will be preceded by the second annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Race, presented by eBay Motors, which will be held from 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. The drag race, which raised approximately $40,000 last year, will benefit children’s charities Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp. Childhelp is an organization that assists abused and neglected children, and Victory Junction Gang Camp provides life-changing camping experiences to disabled and chronically ill children.

Miniature race cars are built for the stock class by children at their camps and then sponsored by participants through their donations to the charities. This year, about 200 cars were built at the Childhelp camp and 150 at the Victory Junction Gang Camp.

A team of SEMA-member volunteers and Pinewood Committee members were on hand to lend their expertise to the children.

“The build days we had this year were simply fantastic,” said 2009 SEMA Pinewood Drag Race Committee Chairman Gregory Parker. “The joy on those kids’ faces as they built their own racers and raced them down the tracks was something to see.”

Spectators anticipating the big win at the 2008 SEMA Pinewood Drag Race. Participants can sponsor derby cars that were built by the kids of Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp, or they can design their own entries.

Participants who sponsor a child’s car will be designated as the team owner and will race under the child’s name.

“We have to work hard to get the racers that were built sponsored by individuals and companies so that we can raise some money for these kids,” said Parker. “The kids really need our help now more than ever.”

Participants can also enter their own derby cars. The drag race will feature three classes: Stock, Modified and Unlimited. The finals will take place shortly before the banquet begins. To enter the race, visit www.sema.org/derby.

The race will also feature an auction of pinewood cars painted by the kids from the charities to resemble the cars of their favorite NASCAR, IRL or NHRA drivers. Each derby car will be autographed by both the child and driver, providing an exclusive item for auction. “The Starting Lineup” auction will take place online at www.sema.org and at the Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser.

SEMA Leadership Days will also include the inaugural SEMA Show ’N’ Shine public car show, to be held August 1. More than 200 vehicles will come together at the Pasadena Convention Center to benefit both Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp.

Chip Foose, award-winning automotive designer and fabricator and host of TLC’s “Overhaulin’,” has been named Grand Marshall of the event.

“It’s an honor being named Grand Marshall for SEMA’s first public car show,” said Foose. “This industry has been an important part of my life, and it’s one that I’m very proud to be a part of. I can’t think of a better way to support these two great children’s charities.”

Foose’s design talent will be displayed at the show through three of his personal vehicles: a ’56 Ford F-100 pickup from “Overhaulin’,” an ’02 Ford T-Bird “Speedbird” that starred in “Rides” and his Foose Coupe. As Grand Marshall of the event, Foose will also design and autograph the official car show T-shirt that will be given to all vehicle registrants free of charge.

“As chairman of the SEMA Cares Committee, I was thrilled when Chip Foose graciously agreed to be the Grand Marshall of our inaugural car show and be on hand to share his passion and expertise with his fellow automotive enthusiasts,” said Joel Ayres. “His generosity and celebrity status will help us launch a successful event that can make the lives of these kids a little better.”

The 2009 SEMA Leadership Days will begin on Thursday, July 30, and will include individual and collective council meetings, Board of Directors’ functions, a State of the Association address and town hall meeting and the annual Internet Symposium. For complete details, visit www.sema.org/leadershipdays. For more information about the Pinewood Drag Race or any of the other activities that will be held in conjunction with the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, contact Lisa Moreno at 909/396-0289 ext. 105 or via e-mail at lisam@sema.org.

SEMA News - July 2009
EVENTS

By Annie Kang

Honoring and Celebrating the Industry While Giving to Those in Need

SEMA Chairman Jim Cozzie honors his peers at the 2008 Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser. Cozzie will be defending his first-place win in the Unlimited class at the second annual Pinewood Drag Race.

Nothing brings together the specialty-equipment community more than when industry leaders and pioneers are honored, charitable causes are served, cars are displayed and peers have the opportunity to compete against each other in the ultimate drag race. The SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser—to be held Saturday, August 1, 2009, at the Pasadena Convention Center in Pasadena, California—is the culmination of SEMA Leadership Days, a three-day event filled with activities that celebrate the spirit of the industry and its members.

The Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser recognizes the dedicated service of the SEMA Board of Directors—a wholly volunteer group of talented individuals who are elected by the membership to lead the association in its efforts. As the outgoing directors are thanked, those who have been newly elected to serve the association are welcomed.

The 2009 SEMA Hall of Fame inductees will also be announced at the gala. The inductees will be honored for their dedication, service and devotion to their businesses and the industry.

The gala will be preceded by the second annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Race, presented by eBay Motors, which will be held from 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. The drag race, which raised approximately $40,000 last year, will benefit children’s charities Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp. Childhelp is an organization that assists abused and neglected children, and Victory Junction Gang Camp provides life-changing camping experiences to disabled and chronically ill children.

Miniature race cars are built for the stock class by children at their camps and then sponsored by participants through their donations to the charities. This year, about 200 cars were built at the Childhelp camp and 150 at the Victory Junction Gang Camp.

A team of SEMA-member volunteers and Pinewood Committee members were on hand to lend their expertise to the children.

“The build days we had this year were simply fantastic,” said 2009 SEMA Pinewood Drag Race Committee Chairman Gregory Parker. “The joy on those kids’ faces as they built their own racers and raced them down the tracks was something to see.”

Spectators anticipating the big win at the 2008 SEMA Pinewood Drag Race. Participants can sponsor derby cars that were built by the kids of Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp, or they can design their own entries.

Participants who sponsor a child’s car will be designated as the team owner and will race under the child’s name.

“We have to work hard to get the racers that were built sponsored by individuals and companies so that we can raise some money for these kids,” said Parker. “The kids really need our help now more than ever.”

Participants can also enter their own derby cars. The drag race will feature three classes: Stock, Modified and Unlimited. The finals will take place shortly before the banquet begins. To enter the race, visit www.sema.org/derby.

The race will also feature an auction of pinewood cars painted by the kids from the charities to resemble the cars of their favorite NASCAR, IRL or NHRA drivers. Each derby car will be autographed by both the child and driver, providing an exclusive item for auction. “The Starting Lineup” auction will take place online at www.sema.org and at the Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser.

SEMA Leadership Days will also include the inaugural SEMA Show ’N’ Shine public car show, to be held August 1. More than 200 vehicles will come together at the Pasadena Convention Center to benefit both Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp.

Chip Foose, award-winning automotive designer and fabricator and host of TLC’s “Overhaulin’,” has been named Grand Marshall of the event.

“It’s an honor being named Grand Marshall for SEMA’s first public car show,” said Foose. “This industry has been an important part of my life, and it’s one that I’m very proud to be a part of. I can’t think of a better way to support these two great children’s charities.”

Foose’s design talent will be displayed at the show through three of his personal vehicles: a ’56 Ford F-100 pickup from “Overhaulin’,” an ’02 Ford T-Bird “Speedbird” that starred in “Rides” and his Foose Coupe. As Grand Marshall of the event, Foose will also design and autograph the official car show T-shirt that will be given to all vehicle registrants free of charge.

“As chairman of the SEMA Cares Committee, I was thrilled when Chip Foose graciously agreed to be the Grand Marshall of our inaugural car show and be on hand to share his passion and expertise with his fellow automotive enthusiasts,” said Joel Ayres. “His generosity and celebrity status will help us launch a successful event that can make the lives of these kids a little better.”

The 2009 SEMA Leadership Days will begin on Thursday, July 30, and will include individual and collective council meetings, Board of Directors’ functions, a State of the Association address and town hall meeting and the annual Internet Symposium. For complete details, visit www.sema.org/leadershipdays. For more information about the Pinewood Drag Race or any of the other activities that will be held in conjunction with the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, contact Lisa Moreno at 909/396-0289 ext. 105 or via e-mail at lisam@sema.org.